August 11, 2023 by Klaus Crow
Greetings, fellow guitar aficionados, today we’re going to embark on an exciting lesson through the world of Neil Young’s best guitar songs. If you aren’t familiar with Neil’s repertoire you should definitely check it out and study it to the bone, because there is so incredibly much to learn from.
There’s no musician more authentic and real in his music and playing than Neil.
Neil Young is a legendary musician known for his great melodies and versatile guitar playing style. He has inspired countless musicians around the world.
Whether you love strumming along to beautiful acoustic guitar classics or you want to learn how to play rocking guitar riffs on the electric guitar, you’re in for a treat. I’ve put together a list of the top 20 Neil Young guitar songs that are sure to get your fingers moving and your heart singing.
The songs are both for the seasoned and beginner guitar player, and offer something for everyone. So grab your guitar, find a cozy spot, and get ready to strum along to some of the most iconic and authentic guitar songs ever created. Let’s dive in together!
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Heart of Gold
The song “Heart of Gold” was written by Neil Young in 1971 and released as part of his album “Harvest.” It reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972.
During the recording of “Heart of Gold,” Neil Young played a Martin D-28 acoustic guitar and a Hohner Marine Band G major harmonica. The song contains a beautiful simple riff that is a “must know” for every guitar player.
Chords used for “Heart of Gold” (according to Ultimate Guitar website) are G, Em, C, and D. The song is played in Em, with a 4/4 time signature, and a tempo around 84 BPM. The strumming pattern consists of gentle downstrokes for the verses and a combination of down-up strums for the chorus.
Like a Hurricane
“Like a Hurricane” is a powerful rock ballad that embodies themes of love, desire, and emotional turmoil. Written by Neil Young, the song was composed in 1975 and released on his album “American Stars ‘n Bars.” It received critical acclaim and reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
For this song Neil Young used his trusty Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier, producing the song’s signature gritty and soaring sound.
Chords used for “Like a Hurricane” are Am, G, F, Em C and Fmaj7. The song is played in Am with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 85 BPM. The strumming pattern for the verses consists of powerful downstrokes with occasional upstrokes to match the song’s energy, while the chorus calls for full-force downstrokes to create that epic rock vibe.
Cortez the Killer
“Cortez the Killer” is a haunting masterpiece written by Neil Young in 1975, released on his album “Zuma.” The song showcases Young’s signature blend of poignant lyrics and intricate guitar work. On the charts, the song didn’t make a significant impact, but it remains a classic among Neil Young fans.
During the recording of “Cortez the Killer,” Neil Young used a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar, plugged into a tweed Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. The song featured a wide array of instruments, including drums, bass, and keyboards, along with Young’s mesmerizing guitar.
Chords used in “Cortez the Killer” (according to ultimate-guitar.com): Em, D and Am7 . The song is in the key of Em with a 4/4 time signature, and a tempo of approximately 66 BPM. The strumming pattern includes a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes to create a flowing and dynamic rhythm.
Old man
“Old Man” is a classic folk-rock song written by Neil Young in 1971, released on his album “Harvest.” The heartfelt lyrics were inspired by Young’s encounter with the caretaker of the ranch he had purchased in California. The song became a commercial success, reaching #31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #4 on the Canadian RPM Top Singles chart.
During the recording of “Old Man,” Neil Young played a Martin D-45 acoustic guitar, which contributed to the warm and inviting sound of the song. Other instruments featured in the recording included bass, drums, piano, and harmonica, adding depth and texture to the arrangement.
Chords used in “Old Man” (according to ultimate-guitar.com): D, Dm7, Dsus4, F, C, G, Am7 and Em7. The song is in the key of D major, with a 4/4 time signature and a gentle tempo of around 82 BPM. The strumming pattern follows a laid-back down-up-down-up-down-up pattern.
Powderfinger
“Powderfinger” is a timeless masterpiece penned by Neil Young, released in 1979 on his album “Rust Never Sleeps.” This poignant song showcases Young’s songwriting prowess, depicting a haunting tale of regret and vulnerability. It climbed to the 61st spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Neil Young wielded his trusty Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar on the recording. The song is played in the key of G major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 98 BPM. The chord progression revolves around G, C, Bm and D chords. The strumming pattern involves a delicate mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, giving the song its distinctive rhythm.
After the Gold Rush
“After the Gold Rush,” written by Neil Young, was penned with poetic brilliance, released in 1970 as the title track of his album. This introspective song weaves intricate narratives, exploring themes of love and environmental concern. It reached the 22nd position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
An upright piano that belonged to Nils Lofgren and a French horn, played by Bill Peterson, were used on the original recording of the song.
“After the Gold Rush” is played in the key of D major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a gentle tempo around 75 BPM. The chords for the song are D, G, A, Bm and C. For the strumming pattern you can play soft downstrokes with a rhythmic up-down motion, mirroring the song’s contemplative piano rhythm.
Rockin’ in the Free World
“Rockin’ in the Free World,” a Neil Young anthem etched with social commentary, emerged in 1989 from the album “Freedom.” Crafted through Young’s signature raw emotion, the song paints a vivid picture of societal challenges. It soared to the 2nd position on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.
For the recording Neil wielded his iconic Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar, channeled through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp fueling its rock energy.
The song is in the key of Em, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a brisk tempo of approximately 146 BPM. The chords for the song are E5, D5, C5, Em, D, C, G and A. Channel the song’s vigor with a dynamic strumming pattern using power chords in the verses, following by a quick down-up motion using open chords in the chorus. Let your guitar roar and unleash with this great song.
Rockin in the free world chords
Down by the river
“Down by the River,” penned by Neil Young, flowed from his creative depths and was released in 1969 as part of the album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.” This poignant song was marked by its introspective lyrics and extended guitar solos, capturing a sense of melancholic exploration. It left an imprint on the 37th spot of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
For this song Neil opted for his Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar, through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp. The song’s emotive landscape was enriched by the harmonious blend of Young’s guitar, Ralph Molina’s drums, and Billy Talbot’s bass.
The song is in the key of Em, adhering to a 4/4 time signature with a steady tempo around 86 BPM. The chords are Em, Em7, Cmaj7, A, Bm, C, D and G repeating the following strumming pattern: down-down-down, down-up-down-up-down, down-up-down.
Harvest moon
“Harvest Moon,” a heartfelt creation by Neil Young, graced the world in 1992 as the title track of his album. Written with profound tenderness, with a beautiful acoustic guitar intro, the song evokes themes of love and connection. It landed warmly on the 36th spot of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Neil used his enchanting Gibson J-180 acoustic guitar during the recording. The song’s atmosphere was further elevated by the harmonious interplay of acoustic instruments, including pedal steel guitar and harmonica.
We’re playing the song in D major, using the chords D, D6, Dmaj7, Em7, G6, A7sus4, A7 and A maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a gentle tempo around 100 BPM. Capture the song’s intimate essence and simplicity with a straight forward down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern.
Cinnamon Girl
“Cinnamon Girl,” emerged in 1969 as part of his album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.” Written by Neil with raw energy, the song captivates with its gritty guitar riffs and distinct sound. It rocked its way onto the 55th position of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, leaving a lasting impact.
“Cinnamon Girl” resides in the key of D major using the chords D, Am, C, F, G and Gm maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 132 BPM. The song combines a strong riff alternated with a open chord progression playing a down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern.
Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)
“Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black),” a Neil Young classic, was written with a touch of raw genius, released in 1979 as part of the album “Rust Never Sleeps.” This iconic song delves into the paradoxes of fame and artistic integrity. It made its mark as an enduring rock anthem and stands as a testament to Young’s lyrical prowess.
Young played his electric guitar through a nasty and filthy distortion to crank things up and giving the song a raw feel.
The song in the key of Am, playing the chords Am, F/A, G6, G, C and F adhering to a 4/4 time signature with a steady tempo around 95 BPM.
Southern Man
“Southern Man,” emerged in 1970 as part of Neil’s album “After the Gold Rush.” Crafted with stark social commentary, the song addresses racial issues and southern history.
Not everyone was happy with Young’s message. The southern rock group Lynyrd Skynyrd believed that Neil Young was unjustly portraying and disrespecting the entire southern region. In reaction, they crafted their own track titled “Sweet Home Alabama.” Within this song, they sang “Well, I heard Mister Young sing about her / Well, I heard ole Neil put her down / Well, I hope Neil Young will remember / A Southern man don’t need him around anyhow.”
Venture into the musical terrain: “Southern Man” is rooted in the key of Dm, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a moderate tempo of around 100 BPM. The chords for the song are: Dm – Bb – Gm – Fmaj7/C – G7 and A.
The Needle and the Damage Done
“The Needle and the Damage Done,” was written by Neil Young, as a stark reflection on the consequences of drug addiction. The song was released in 1972 on the album “Harvest,” although it didn’t chart as a single, this acoustic ballad is a favorite among guitar players.
Neil Young’s Gibson Hummingbird acoustic guitar, accompanied by his evocative vocals, was recorded to capture the raw essence of “The Needle and the Damage Done.”
Now, let’s delve into the musical details: “The Needle and the Damage Done” is played in the key of D major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a gentle tempo around 95 BPM. Embrace the song’s heartfelt emotion with a delicate strumming pattern. The following chords are played in the song: D – C – Cadd9 – G – Gm – Bes – F – Esus4 and E.
The needle and the damage done chords
The needle and the damage done tabs
Ohio
“Ohio,” by Neil Young, emerged in 1970 as a response to the tragic events at Kent State University, capturing the fervor of anti-war protests. Released as a single, it reached the 14th position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, magnifying its impact.
Neil Young’s trusty Les Paul Sunburst guitar, channeled through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp, resonated powerfully during the recording of “Ohio.” The track’s sound was heightened by the emotive blend of Young’s unpolished raw guitar playing and David Crosby’s backing vocals.
Dive into the musical core: “Ohio” is rooted in the key of E minor, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 112 BPM. The chords for the song are: Dm – F – C – Gm.
Only Love Can Break Your Heart
“Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” a soul-stirring creation by Neil Young from his album “After the Gold Rush.” is about vulnerability and heartache. It reached the 33rd position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Neil Young’s Gibson Hummingbird acoustic guitar was tenderly recorded for “Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” complemented by the poignant interplay of his vocals and the subtle harmonies.
Venture into the musical landscape: “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” resides in the key of D major, maintaining a 6/8 time signature with a gentle tempo around 76 BPM. The chords for the song are: A7 – D – G – A – Dmaj7 – F#m – Em. For the strumming pattern you can play down-down-up-down-up following a 6/8 feel.
Only love can break your heart Chords
Helpless
“Helpless,” a poignant creation by Neil Young, emerged in 1969 as part of the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young album “Déjà Vu.” Written with a sense of vulnerability, the song captures moments of introspection and longing. Although it didn’t chart as a single, it remains a soulful gem cherished by many.
“Helpless” is rooted in the key of D major, following an easy chord progression of three chords D , A and G. The song has a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 86 BPM. You can play a relaxed rhythm strumming down(1-2)-down(3)-up(and)-down(4)-up(and), to set an introspective mood.
Cowgirl in the Sand
“Cowgirl in the Sand,” is a mesmerizing Neil Young song from the 1969 album “Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere.” Written with poetic depth, the song captures a sense of longing and nostalgia.
Neil Young’s Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar, paired with a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp, reverberated during the recording of “Cowgirl in the Sand.” The track’s atmospheric quality was enhanced by the interplay of Young’s guitar, Ralph Molina’s drums, and Billy Talbot’s bass.
Embark on the musical journey: “Cowgirl in the Sand” resides in the key of Am, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a steady tempo around 84 BPM. The chords for Cowgirl in the sand are Am – F – C – G – Dm – Em – E7 – A – F#m – D – E – Bm – C#m and F#.
On the beach
“On the Beach,” a beautiful Neil Young masterpiece, emerged in 1974 as the title track of his album. Crafted with introspective depth, the song delves into themes of personal reflection and societal disillusionment. It didn’t chart as a single but has garnered a loyal following for its contemplative resonance.
During the recording of “On the Beach,” Neil Young channeled his Gibson Les Paul Old Black guitar through a Fender Deluxe Reverb amp, capturing the song’s raw energy adding a slight distortion.
Embark on the musical journey: “On the Beach” resides in the key of A minor, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a tempo around 100 BPM. To capture the song’s emotive essence, employ a strumming pattern that mirrors its introspection. The songs chords are Am7 – Am9 – Dm – Cmaj7 – Dm7 – Fmaj7.
Long my you run
“Long May You Run,” penned by Neil Young, was born out of an ode to his cherished 1948 Buick Roadmaster hearse, an emblem of his relationship with bandmate Stephen Stills. Released in 1976 on the album of the same name, the song holds a bittersweet nostalgia for Young’s past companionship.
During the recording of “Long May You Run,” Neil Young harmonized his voice with an Ovation Adamas 12-string acoustic guitar, bringing a resonant quality to the track. The song’s warm timbre was further enhanced by the mix of drums, bass, and harmonica, painting a heartfelt musical picture.
Dive into the musical realm: “Long May You Run” is anchored in the key of D major, set to a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 112 BPM. The chords for the song are D – A/D – G – Bm – A – Bm7 – Asus4 – Dsus4 – Bb – A7.
Walk on
“Walk On,” is a captivating song by Neil Young, from his 1974 album “On the Beach.” Written with resilience, the song reflects on moving forward despite challenges.
The song’s vibrant sound was enhanced by the blend of Young’s vocals, harmonica, and the ensemble’s harmonies.
Let’s delve into the musical intricacies: “Walk On” is rooted in the key of A major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature at a tempo around 124 BPM. To capture the song’s uplifting spirit, employ a strumming pattern that mirrors its steady feel and tempo. The chords progression for the verses are 1 bar “A major” and 1 bar “D major” playing it 8 times over. The chorus plays A – C#m – C#m – F# (3 times) and then E – D and and A – A9 – D, Amaj7 – Dmaj7 – D6 – D, ending the song with a beautiful simple guitar riff.
What’s your favorite Neil Young song? Feel free to share your feedback in the comments below. I appreciate it.
Favorite John Mellencamp song? “Check It Out”
One of the best – love his music, will last forever.
Hi Dan,
“Check it out” is absolutely an awesome song. Every instrument on that song
just blasts perfectly out of the speakers, and it has such a feel good vibe.
Your comment would better fit on the John Mellencamp post ;)
https://www.guitarhabits.com/top-20-best-john-mellencamp-guitar-songs-chords-tabs-incl/
But thanks for sharing. I love it.
Best,
Klaus
Hi Pat,
Absolutely. More pure, delicate and authentic it will not get.
Thanks!